A drilling fluid system and associated method for supplying drilling mud to a drilling operation includes a plurality of first sensors associated with a first mud pit, configured to measure a plurality of properties of the drilling mud in the first mud pit, a plurality of second sensors associated with a second mud pit, configured to measure the plurality of properties of the drilling mud in the second mud pit, and a control unit configured to receive measurements from the plurality of first sensors and the plurality of second sensors, determine which of the mud pits comprises drilling mud with a desired plurality of properties, and cause to operate a first valve associated with the first mud pit or a second valve associated with the second mud pit for selecting drilling mud from the first mud pit or the second mud pit based on the determination.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A drilling fluid system for supplying drilling mud to a drilling operation, the drilling fluid system comprising: a first mud pit for receiving drilling mud from a first mud input; a plurality of first sensors associated with the first mud pit, the plurality of first sensors configured to measure a plurality of properties of the drilling mud in the first mud pit; a second mud pit for receiving drilling mud from a second mud input; a plurality of second sensors associated with the second mud pit, the plurality of second sensors configured to measure the plurality of properties of the drilling mud in the second mud pit; and a control unit operatively coupled to the plurality of first sensors and the plurality of second sensors, the control unit further configure to: receive measurements from the plurality of first sensors and the plurality of second sensors in real time; compare measurements from the plurality of first sensors to the measurements from the plurality of second sensors; determine which of the mud pits comprises drilling mud with the most number of measurements that fall within predetermined threshold values predefined for each of the plurality of properties; and cause to operate a first valve associated with the first mud pit or a second valve associated with the second mud pit for selecting drilling mud from the first mud pit or the second mud pit based on the determination.
The drilling fluid system is designed for supplying drilling mud to a drilling operation, addressing the need for real-time monitoring and selection of optimal drilling mud quality. The system includes two mud pits, each receiving drilling mud from separate inputs. Each mud pit is equipped with multiple sensors that measure various properties of the drilling mud, such as density, viscosity, and chemical composition. A control unit is connected to all sensors and processes the measurements in real time. It compares the properties of the mud in both pits against predefined threshold values for each property. The control unit identifies which mud pit contains drilling mud with the most measurements that fall within the acceptable ranges. Based on this determination, the control unit activates a valve to select and supply the mud from the pit with the highest quality. This automated selection ensures that the drilling operation consistently receives the most suitable drilling mud, improving efficiency and reducing downtime. The system enhances drilling performance by continuously monitoring and optimizing mud quality without manual intervention.
2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising: a third mud pit for receiving drilling mud from a third mud input; a plurality of third sensors associated with the third mud pit, the plurality of third sensors configured to measure the plurality of properties of the drilling mud in the third mud pit; and the control unit operatively coupled to the plurality of third sensors, the control unit further configure to: receive measurements from the plurality of third sensors; determine which of the mud pits comprises drilling mud with the most number of measurements that fall within predetermined threshold values predefined for each of the plurality of properties; and cause to operate the first valve, the second valve, or a third valve associated with the third mud pit for selecting drilling mud from the first mud pit or the second mud pit or the third mud pit based on the determination.
The system is designed for managing drilling mud in oil and gas drilling operations, addressing the challenge of ensuring consistent mud quality for optimal drilling performance. Drilling mud is critical for lubrication, cooling, and debris removal, but its properties must be carefully monitored to maintain efficiency and safety. The system includes multiple mud pits, each receiving drilling mud from separate inputs and equipped with sensors to measure key properties such as density, viscosity, and solids content. A control unit processes these measurements to determine which mud pit contains mud that meets predefined quality thresholds for each property. The system then selects the most suitable mud pit by operating valves to direct the appropriate mud to the drilling operation. This ensures that only high-quality mud is used, improving drilling efficiency and reducing downtime. The system can be expanded with additional mud pits, each with its own sensors and valves, allowing for continuous monitoring and selection of the best available mud. This automated approach minimizes manual intervention and enhances operational reliability.
3. The system of claim 2 , further comprising: a mud suction manifold for receiving the drilling mud from the first mud pit, the second mud pit, or the third mud pit, and supplying the drilling mud to a well bore.
The system relates to drilling fluid (mud) management in oil and gas drilling operations, addressing inefficiencies in handling and circulating drilling mud between multiple mud pits and the wellbore. Traditional systems often struggle with contamination, inconsistent mud properties, or delays in supplying clean mud to the wellbore, which can disrupt drilling operations and increase costs. The system includes a mud suction manifold that connects to at least three mud pits (a first, second, and third mud pit) and supplies drilling mud to the wellbore. The manifold allows selective drawing of mud from any of the pits, enabling flexibility in mud sourcing based on quality, temperature, or other properties. This ensures a continuous and controlled supply of drilling mud to the wellbore, improving drilling efficiency and reducing downtime. The system may also include mechanisms for monitoring and adjusting mud properties, such as density or viscosity, before delivery to the wellbore. By integrating multiple mud pits with a centralized suction manifold, the system optimizes mud circulation, minimizes contamination risks, and enhances overall drilling performance.
4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the control unit is further configured to: trigger an alarm if the measurements from the plurality of first sensors or the plurality of second sensors or the plurality of third sensors are outside of a predetermined threshold, the predetermined threshold being predefined for each of the plurality of properties; and cause corrective action in one or more mud pits where the measurements are outside of the predetermined threshold.
This invention relates to a monitoring and control system for managing drilling fluid (mud) properties in oil and gas drilling operations. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining optimal mud properties to ensure drilling efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance. Variations in mud properties such as density, viscosity, and chemical composition can lead to drilling inefficiencies, equipment damage, or environmental hazards. The system includes multiple sensors distributed across different mud pits to measure key properties of the drilling fluid. A control unit processes these measurements in real time, comparing them against predefined thresholds for each property. If any measurement deviates from the acceptable range, the system triggers an alarm to alert operators. Additionally, the control unit automatically initiates corrective actions in the affected mud pits, such as adjusting fluid composition, temperature, or flow rates, to restore the properties to their desired levels. This automated response ensures rapid correction, minimizing downtime and potential risks. The system enhances operational efficiency by reducing manual monitoring and intervention, while improving safety and environmental compliance through precise control of mud properties. The use of multiple sensor types and real-time analysis allows for comprehensive monitoring and proactive management of drilling fluid conditions.
5. The system according to claim 4 , wherein the corrective action is notified in real time to a mud engineer in a control room located offshore or onshore.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and managing drilling operations in oil and gas exploration, particularly focusing on real-time corrective actions for drilling fluid (mud) properties. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining optimal drilling fluid conditions to prevent wellbore instability, equipment damage, or operational inefficiencies. Drilling fluid properties, such as density, viscosity, and chemical composition, must be carefully controlled to ensure safe and efficient drilling. The system includes sensors and monitoring devices that continuously measure drilling fluid parameters and compare them against predefined thresholds. When deviations are detected, the system automatically triggers corrective actions, such as adjusting fluid composition, flow rates, or other operational parameters. A key feature is the real-time notification of these corrective actions to a mud engineer in a control room, whether located offshore or onshore. This ensures immediate awareness and intervention, allowing the engineer to verify, override, or modify the system's response as needed. The system enhances operational safety, reduces downtime, and improves drilling efficiency by integrating automated monitoring with human oversight.
6. The system of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of first sensors, second sensors, and third sensors comprise at least one of a temperature sensor, conductivity sensor, density sensor, pH sensor, viscosity sensor, Rheometer, pressure sensor, chemical sensor, and a particle size analyzer.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and analyzing fluid properties in industrial or laboratory settings. The system addresses the need for accurate, real-time measurement of multiple fluid parameters to ensure process control, quality assurance, and safety in applications such as chemical processing, food production, and environmental monitoring. The system includes a network of sensors that detect various physical and chemical properties of fluids, enabling comprehensive analysis and decision-making. The system comprises multiple types of sensors, including temperature, conductivity, density, pH, viscosity, pressure, chemical composition, and particle size sensors. These sensors are strategically placed to measure fluid properties at different stages of a process. The temperature sensor detects thermal variations, while the conductivity sensor assesses ionic content. The density sensor measures fluid mass per unit volume, and the pH sensor evaluates acidity or alkalinity. Viscosity sensors determine fluid resistance to flow, and rheometers analyze complex flow behaviors. Pressure sensors monitor fluid pressure, chemical sensors detect specific compounds, and particle size analyzers measure particle distribution. The data from these sensors is collected and processed to provide insights into fluid behavior, ensuring optimal process conditions and product quality. This multi-sensor approach enhances accuracy and reliability compared to single-sensor systems, making it suitable for demanding industrial applications.
7. The system according to claim 6 , wherein the measurements are obtained in real time, and the plurality of first sensors, second sensors, and third sensors are capable of operating in hazardous environments.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and analyzing environmental conditions in hazardous environments using multiple sensor types. The system addresses the need for reliable, real-time data collection in potentially dangerous settings where traditional sensors may fail or provide inaccurate readings. The system includes a network of first sensors, second sensors, and third sensors, each designed to operate in hazardous conditions such as high temperatures, explosive atmospheres, or corrosive environments. The first sensors detect a primary set of environmental parameters, such as temperature, pressure, or chemical composition. The second sensors monitor secondary parameters, such as vibration or radiation levels, while the third sensors provide additional data, such as humidity or gas concentrations. All sensors operate simultaneously in real time, ensuring continuous and up-to-date monitoring. The system is designed to withstand extreme conditions, ensuring durability and accuracy in environments where conventional sensors would degrade or malfunction. By integrating multiple sensor types, the system provides a comprehensive overview of the hazardous environment, enabling better decision-making for safety and operational control. The real-time data transmission allows for immediate response to changing conditions, reducing risks and improving efficiency in industrial, mining, or chemical processing applications.
8. The system of claim 2 , wherein the plurality of properties comprise at least one of mud temperature, weight, density, viscosity, rheology, gel strength, pH, hardness, conductivity, sand content, particle size, pressure, Calcium content, Magnesium content, Chloride content, Potassium content, alkalinity or lime content, and clay content.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and analyzing drilling fluid (mud) properties in oil and gas drilling operations. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining optimal drilling fluid performance by continuously measuring and evaluating key parameters that affect drilling efficiency, wellbore stability, and equipment longevity. The system includes sensors and analytical modules that track a wide range of fluid properties, such as temperature, weight, density, viscosity, rheology, gel strength, pH, hardness, conductivity, sand content, particle size, pressure, and chemical compositions like Calcium, Magnesium, Chloride, Potassium, alkalinity, lime, and clay content. These properties are critical for ensuring proper drilling fluid behavior, preventing wellbore instability, and avoiding equipment damage. The system processes this data in real-time to provide actionable insights, allowing operators to adjust fluid formulations dynamically. By monitoring these properties, the system helps maintain drilling fluid within specified operational ranges, improving drilling efficiency and reducing downtime. The invention is particularly useful in oil and gas drilling, where precise control of drilling fluid properties is essential for safe and efficient operations.
9. A method for selectively supplying drilling mud to a drilling operation, the method comprising: measuring, by a plurality of first sensors associated with a first mud pit, a plurality of properties of the drilling mud in the first mud pit; measuring, by a plurality of second sensors associated with a second mud pit, the plurality of properties of the drilling mud in the second mud pit; receiving, by a control unit operatively coupled to the plurality of first sensors and the plurality of second sensors, measurements from the plurality of first sensors and the plurality of second sensors in real time; comparing, by the control unit, measurements from the plurality of first sensors and to the measurements from the plurality of second sensors; determining, by the control unit, which of the mud pits comprises drilling mud with the most number of measurements that fall within predetermined threshold values predefined for each of the plurality of properties; and causing, by the control unit, to operate a first valve associated with the first mud pit or a second valve associated with the second mud pit for selecting drilling mud from the first mud pit or the second mud pit based on the determining step.
This invention relates to a system for optimizing the supply of drilling mud in oil and gas drilling operations. Drilling mud is critical for lubrication, cooling, and removing cuttings, but its properties must be carefully controlled to ensure efficient and safe drilling. Variations in mud properties between different mud pits can lead to inefficiencies or operational issues. The system includes multiple sensors in at least two mud pits, each measuring key properties of the drilling mud, such as density, viscosity, and chemical composition. A control unit continuously receives real-time data from these sensors. The control unit compares the measurements from each mud pit and identifies which pit contains mud with the most properties meeting predefined threshold values. Based on this analysis, the control unit activates a valve to select the optimal mud pit for supplying drilling mud to the operation. This ensures that the drilling process receives mud with the most consistent and desirable properties, improving efficiency and reducing waste. The system automates mud selection, minimizing manual intervention and enhancing operational reliability.
10. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: measuring, by a plurality of third sensors associated with a third mud pit, the plurality of properties of the drilling mud in the third mud pit; receiving, by the control unit, measurements from the plurality of third sensors; determining, by the control unit, which of the mud pits comprises drilling mud with the most number of measurements that fall within predetermined threshold values predefined for each of the plurality of properties; and causing, by the control unit, to operate the first valve, the second valve, or a third valve associated with the third mud pit for selecting drilling mud from the first mud pit or the second mud pit or the third mud pit based on the determining step.
This invention relates to a system for managing drilling mud in a drilling operation, specifically addressing the challenge of selecting the most suitable drilling mud from multiple mud pits based on measured properties. The system includes at least three mud pits, each equipped with sensors to measure properties such as density, viscosity, and chemical composition of the drilling mud. A control unit receives these measurements and compares them against predefined threshold values for each property. The control unit then identifies which mud pit contains drilling mud with the highest number of measurements that fall within these thresholds, indicating the most optimal mud quality. Based on this determination, the control unit operates valves associated with each mud pit to select and direct the drilling mud from the pit with the best-quality mud into the drilling system. This ensures that the drilling operation consistently uses the most suitable mud, improving efficiency and reducing risks associated with suboptimal mud properties. The system may include additional mud pits, each with corresponding sensors and valves, allowing for expanded mud selection capabilities.
11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising: receiving the drilling mud from the first mud pit, the second mud pit, or the third mud pit in a mud suction manifold; and supplying the drilling mud from the mud suction manifold to a well bore.
This invention relates to a system for managing drilling mud in oil and gas drilling operations, addressing the challenge of efficiently distributing and circulating drilling mud between multiple mud pits and a wellbore. The system includes a network of interconnected mud pits, each equipped with a mud pump and a mud suction manifold. The mud suction manifold collects drilling mud from any of the mud pits and supplies it to the wellbore, ensuring continuous circulation during drilling. The system also allows for selective activation of mud pumps in the pits to maintain optimal mud flow rates and pressure. Additionally, the system may include a mud return line that directs used drilling mud from the wellbore back to one or more mud pits for processing and recirculation. The invention improves operational efficiency by enabling flexible mud distribution and reducing downtime associated with mud handling.
12. The method of claim 10 , further comprising: triggering an alarm, by the control unit, if the measurements from the plurality of first sensors or the plurality of second sensors or the plurality of third sensors are outside of a predetermined threshold, the predetermined threshold being predefined for each of the plurality of properties; and causing, by the control unit, corrective action in one or more mud pits where the measurements are outside of the predetermined threshold.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and controlling drilling fluid properties in oil and gas drilling operations. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining optimal drilling fluid (mud) conditions to ensure efficient drilling, equipment protection, and environmental safety. Drilling fluids must meet specific physical and chemical properties, such as density, viscosity, and pH, to function effectively. Deviations from these properties can lead to drilling inefficiencies, equipment damage, or environmental hazards. The system includes multiple sensors distributed across the drilling fluid circulation system to measure various properties of the drilling fluid. These sensors are categorized into three groups: first sensors for measuring properties in the active mud system, second sensors for measuring properties in the reserve mud pits, and third sensors for measuring properties in the discharge system. A control unit processes the sensor data in real time and compares the measurements against predefined thresholds for each property. If any measurement falls outside the acceptable range, the control unit triggers an alarm to alert operators. Additionally, the control unit initiates corrective actions in the affected mud pits, such as adjusting fluid composition, temperature, or other parameters to restore the desired properties. This automated response ensures rapid correction of deviations, minimizing downtime and operational risks. The system enhances drilling efficiency, reduces equipment wear, and improves safety by maintaining optimal drilling fluid conditions.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the corrective action is notified in real time to a mud engineer in a control room located offshore or onshore.
This invention relates to real-time monitoring and corrective action in drilling operations, specifically addressing the need for immediate notification of drilling fluid (mud) conditions to ensure operational safety and efficiency. The method involves detecting deviations in drilling fluid properties, such as density, viscosity, or contamination levels, using sensors deployed in the drilling system. When an anomaly is detected, the system automatically triggers a corrective action, such as adjusting fluid composition or flow rate, to maintain optimal drilling conditions. A key feature is the real-time transmission of these corrective actions to a mud engineer stationed in a control room, whether located offshore or onshore. This ensures rapid decision-making and intervention, minimizing downtime and preventing potential hazards like wellbore instability or equipment damage. The system integrates sensor data, processing algorithms, and communication protocols to provide timely alerts and actionable insights, enhancing overall drilling performance. The invention is particularly useful in environments where immediate response to fluid changes is critical, such as deepwater or high-pressure drilling operations.
14. The method of claim 10 , wherein the plurality of first sensors, second sensors, and third sensors comprise at least one of a temperature sensor, conductivity sensor, density sensor, pH sensor, viscosity sensor, Rheometer, pressure sensor, chemical sensor, and a particle size analyzer.
This invention relates to a system for monitoring and analyzing fluid properties in industrial or laboratory settings, addressing the need for accurate, real-time measurement of multiple fluid parameters to ensure process control, quality assurance, and safety. The system employs a network of sensors to detect various physical and chemical properties of fluids, including temperature, conductivity, density, pH, viscosity, rheological behavior, pressure, chemical composition, and particle size distribution. These sensors are strategically positioned within a fluid flow path or container to continuously collect data, which is then processed to provide insights into fluid behavior, detect anomalies, or optimize processing conditions. The system may integrate different sensor types to capture a comprehensive profile of the fluid, enabling applications in chemical processing, food and beverage production, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and environmental monitoring. By combining multiple sensor modalities, the invention enhances measurement accuracy, reduces the need for manual sampling, and supports automated decision-making in fluid handling operations. The sensors may be configured to operate in harsh environments, ensuring reliability in industrial applications. The system can also include data transmission and analysis modules to facilitate remote monitoring and predictive maintenance.
15. The method of claim 10 , wherein the plurality of properties comprise at least one of mud temperature, weight, density, viscosity, rheology, gel strength, pH, hardness, conductivity, sand content, particle size, pressure, Calcium content, Magnesium content, Chloride content, Potassium content, alkalinity or lime content, and clay content.
This invention relates to the monitoring and analysis of drilling fluids, also known as drilling mud, used in oil and gas drilling operations. Drilling fluids are critical for lubricating the drill bit, removing cuttings, stabilizing the borehole, and maintaining pressure. However, their properties must be carefully controlled to ensure efficient and safe drilling operations. The invention provides a method for analyzing a plurality of properties of drilling fluids to optimize performance and detect potential issues. The method involves measuring and monitoring various physical and chemical properties of the drilling fluid, including mud temperature, weight, density, viscosity, rheology, gel strength, pH, hardness, conductivity, sand content, particle size, pressure, and chemical compositions such as Calcium, Magnesium, Chloride, Potassium, alkalinity, lime, and clay content. These properties are essential for assessing the fluid's performance, stability, and compatibility with drilling conditions. By continuously or periodically analyzing these parameters, the system can detect deviations from optimal conditions, predict potential failures, and recommend adjustments to maintain drilling efficiency and safety. The method may involve real-time data collection, automated analysis, and integration with drilling control systems to ensure timely corrective actions. This approach enhances drilling fluid management, reduces downtime, and improves overall drilling efficiency.
16. The method of claim 10 , wherein the measurements are obtained in real time, and the plurality of first sensors, second sensors, and third sensors are capable of operating in hazardous environments.
This invention relates to a method for monitoring and analyzing environmental conditions in hazardous environments using a distributed sensor network. The method involves obtaining real-time measurements from a plurality of first sensors, second sensors, and third sensors, where each type of sensor is designed to detect different environmental parameters. The first sensors measure a first set of environmental conditions, such as temperature, pressure, or chemical composition. The second sensors measure a second set of environmental conditions, such as humidity, radiation levels, or particulate matter. The third sensors measure a third set of environmental conditions, such as vibration, structural integrity, or gas concentrations. The sensors are deployed in a network configuration to provide comprehensive coverage of the monitored area. The real-time data collected by the sensors is processed to detect anomalies, predict potential hazards, and trigger alerts or automated responses. The sensors are specifically designed to operate in hazardous environments, such as industrial facilities, chemical plants, or mining operations, where traditional sensors may fail due to extreme conditions. The method ensures continuous monitoring and early detection of dangerous conditions, improving safety and operational efficiency in high-risk settings.
17. A control unit in a drilling fluid system, the control unit configured to: receive measurements of a plurality of mud properties from a plurality of first sensors associated with a first mud pit, in real time; receive measurements of the plurality of mud properties from a plurality of second sensors associated with a second mud pit, in real time; compare measurements from the plurality of first sensors to the measurements from the plurality of second sensors; determine which of the mud pits comprises drilling mud with the most number of measurements that fall within predetermined threshold values predefined for each of the plurality of properties; and cause to operate a first valve associated with the first mud pit or a second valve associated with the second mud pit for selecting drilling mud from the first mud pit or the second mud pit based on the determination.
The invention relates to a control unit for optimizing drilling fluid (mud) selection in a drilling fluid system. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining consistent mud properties during drilling operations, which is critical for wellbore stability, lubrication, and efficient cuttings removal. Variations in mud properties between multiple mud pits can lead to operational inefficiencies and drilling complications. The control unit receives real-time measurements of multiple mud properties, such as density, viscosity, and solids content, from sensors associated with at least two mud pits. These measurements are continuously compared to determine which mud pit contains drilling mud with the highest number of properties meeting predefined threshold values. The control unit then automatically operates valves to select the mud pit with the most suitable mud for drilling operations. This ensures that the drilling system consistently uses mud that meets optimal performance criteria, improving drilling efficiency and reducing the risk of wellbore instability. The system eliminates manual intervention, providing a more reliable and automated approach to mud management.
18. The control unit of claim 17 , further configured to: receive measurements of the plurality of mud properties from a plurality of third sensors associated with a third mud pit; determine which of the mud pits comprises drilling mud with the most number of measurements that fall within predetermined threshold values predefined for each of the plurality of properties; and cause to operate the first valve, the second valve, or a third valve associated with the third mud pit for selecting drilling mud from the first mud pit or the second mud pit or the third mud pit based on the determination.
This invention relates to a control system for managing drilling mud in a drilling operation, specifically addressing the challenge of selecting the most suitable drilling mud from multiple mud pits based on measured properties. The system includes a control unit that receives measurements of mud properties from sensors associated with at least three mud pits. The control unit analyzes these measurements to determine which mud pit contains drilling mud with the highest number of property measurements that fall within predefined threshold values for each property. Based on this determination, the control unit operates valves associated with each mud pit to select and direct the drilling mud from the most suitable pit into the drilling system. The valves are configured to isolate or connect each mud pit to the drilling system, ensuring that only the optimal mud is used. The system automates the selection process, improving efficiency and consistency in drilling operations by ensuring the mud meets predefined quality standards. The invention enhances drilling performance by dynamically choosing the best available mud based on real-time property measurements.
19. The control unit of claim 18 , further configured to: trigger an alarm if the measurements from the plurality of first sensors or the plurality of second sensors or the plurality of third sensors are outside of a predetermined threshold, the predetermined threshold being predefined for each of the plurality of properties; and cause corrective action in one or more mud pits where the measurements are outside of the predetermined threshold.
This invention relates to a control unit for monitoring and managing drilling fluid (mud) properties in oil and gas drilling operations. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining optimal mud properties to ensure drilling efficiency, safety, and equipment longevity. During drilling, mud properties such as density, viscosity, and chemical composition must be carefully controlled to prevent wellbore instability, equipment damage, or environmental hazards. The control unit continuously receives measurements from multiple sensors monitoring different mud properties in one or more mud pits. If any measured property deviates from predefined thresholds, the system triggers an alarm to alert operators. Additionally, the control unit automatically initiates corrective actions in the affected mud pits, such as adjusting fluid additives, altering mixing rates, or redirecting fluid flow to restore proper conditions. This automated response ensures rapid correction of deviations, minimizing downtime and operational risks. The system integrates with a network of sensors distributed across the drilling site, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of mud properties in real time. By automating both alarm triggers and corrective measures, the invention enhances operational efficiency and reduces the reliance on manual intervention. This approach is particularly valuable in high-pressure drilling environments where rapid response to mud property changes is critical.
20. The control unit of claim 19 , wherein the determining step further comprises comparing measurements from the first mud pit, the second mud pit, and the third mud pit, and selecting the mud pit with the most number of measurements that fall within the predetermined threshold values.
This invention relates to a control unit for managing drilling fluid (mud) in a drilling system with multiple mud pits. The system addresses the challenge of ensuring consistent mud quality and flow during drilling operations, where variations in mud properties can lead to inefficiencies or equipment damage. The control unit monitors measurements from at least three mud pits, each storing drilling fluid with different properties or at different stages of processing. The unit determines which mud pit provides the most reliable fluid supply by comparing measurements from all three pits against predetermined threshold values for parameters such as density, viscosity, or contamination levels. The pit with the highest number of measurements within these thresholds is selected as the primary source for the drilling operation. This ensures that the drilling system receives fluid that meets operational requirements, improving efficiency and reducing downtime. The control unit may also adjust fluid flow rates or trigger alerts if measurements deviate significantly from thresholds, enhancing system reliability. The invention is particularly useful in oil and gas drilling, where maintaining optimal mud conditions is critical for drilling performance and equipment longevity.
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February 16, 2017
December 10, 2019
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